AC Writers Unplugged

I discovered some intriguing tidbits about AC writers and decided to delve deeper into the world of the people behind the writing. Many writers here have atypical backgrounds, jobs, hobbies, quirks and passions.

I thought it would be fun and enlightening to share some of their individual lives with readers. You will be pleasantly surprised, often amazed, intrigued and at times humored by; things I unearth about some of our fellow AC Contributors. This is the fifth article in this series.

Sylvia Branch - Roller Derby Girl & Artist

Sylvia Branch has been a Contributor at AC since September of 2009. A recipient of an AC "Rising Star" badge; Sylvia's outstanding written content is vast, topical, lively and covers everything from "Bargain Hunting 101" to "Drying Mushrooms" for use in soup, salads and casseroles just to name a few.

This mother of four takes a key interest in physical fitness and has written some rousing articles on the subject. If you need some motivation with that boring fitness routine, Sylvia gets you moving again with stimulating exercise tips in a fun article you can read here.

The Palette to Roller Skates

Sylvia shared with me the fascinating details of the world of roller derby, which she obviously adores. While showing her artwork in downtown Cleveland, Sylvia said, "I was intrigued when I started hearing about roller derby tryouts." "I picked up the info and looked up the sport online, but did not make the plunge."

Sylvia explained that at the time, "I was a self-employed, home schooling mother of four children, who kept me extremely busy with their school and sporting activities." As if that was not enough; Sylvia and her husband also participated on soccer teams, which simply left her, without the extra time to commit to the derby's three-day a week training schedule. The cost was a factor as well, she notes.

Instead, Sylvia got on the mailing list and followed the derby sport progress "from afar." When she got wind, however, that a "recreational" roller derby league was in the making, Sylvia headed to its informational meeting and without hesitation, "signed up on the spot."

Citing the recreational league's one-day a week training and friendliness of the other girls, it did not take much to convince Sylvia to try roller derby. Read her interesting "Roller Derby Facts" article for additional information about the sport.

"Northern Ohio wRECk Roller Derby League"

Who participates in the roller derby league you wonder? This may surprise you! Sylvia said, "Roller derby girls come from all walks of life." She related that her league has homemakers, a law enforcement agent, girls in law and nursing school, librarians, flight attendants, figure skaters, photographers and small business owners to name some.

I love Sylvia's enthusiasm about roller derby being a sport for everyone. "All shapes and sizes are welcome and knowing how to skate well isn't even a requirement." "The drills are designed to teach the right way to skate for derby and the sport completely works out your entire body."

Pointing out that "old school quad skates" are a necessity, Sylvia also said derby girls have to wear helmets, a mouth guard, strong knee and elbow pads and wrist guards. She notes that medical insurance is a requirement to partake in the league because the possibility of injuries exists, "...which makes learning the rules and skills a serious focus of each week's practice."

Fishnet Stockings and Tutus

It may be just a girl thing, but I thought it was fabulous when Sylvia explained that her mid-week roller derby practice is "a highlight of my week." She went on to say, "I love the intensity of the training and the sense of belonging." "A lot of us choose to dress up as well; fishnets, tutu's, short skirts, funky knee-high socks, anything goes."

"As a freelance writer and artist, I generally work alone...having the opportunity to mix going out, playing dress up and working out with my girlfriends, makes derby even more fun," Sylvia recounted. Talk about the ultimate girls' night out! Heck, it makes me want to dig out my old skates!

"Skaty Cakes" on the National Registry

Sylvia said she was "...so excited to see my derby name hit the National Registry." "All skaters submit their choice (of name) and the league then sends it in for approval." "Each and every roller derby girl in the country has a unique name and number." "You have to be sure the the name you choose isn't too similar to anyone else or it will be rejected." Sylvia's derby name is "Skaty Cakes" and she believes it suits her perfectly. I do, too!

What Does the Future Hold?

Well, for Sylvia, more roller derby, of course. She concluded: "Junior Roller Derby is my latest adventure." "I recently agreed to help train 11-17 year-old girls who are interested in giving roller derby a try." "This brand new league is forming now and I'm excited at the possibilities." "Junior Roller Derby is gaining popularity across the country and we are hoping to plan some bouts with nearby teams."

I am positive Sylvia will be a great teacher for the younger girls because she is such a passionate person in all aspects of her life. So, best of luck to you Sylvia and many thanks for sharing some of your life with AC readers.

This is an ongoing series. Anyone who would like to participate can send me a personal message via my AC contact tab.

Source:Sylvia Branch